The Durango Herald published an editorial yesterday that urges Republicans to hold onto their ballots for a week or so to see if Scott McInnis does a better job of explaining the plagiarism scandal.

The editorial starts out by saying the race “should have been an easy call for Colorado Republicans,” and then goes on to talk about McInnis’ accomplishments as a state legislator and a member of the U.S. House.

But it dings McInnis for his response to the situation and urges voters to give McInnis a chance to better explain himself.

GOP voters should hold their ballots for a week or so until voting. If by then McInnis has not come up with a better explanation for the plagiarism, they should leave the governor’s race unmarked.

Voting for McInnis’ opponent, Dan Maes, is not an acceptable alternative. Maes has no political experience and supports such schemes as overturning voter-approved taxes and sending Western Slope water to the Front Range.

If McInnis cannot adequately explain himself – and soon – the GOP will need another candidate.

Joey Bunch has been a reporter for 28 years, including the last 12 at The Denver Post. For various newspapers he has covered the environment, water issues, politics, civil rights, sports and the casino industry.